City Creates License for Focused Home Repairs

Published on February 28, 2024

The City of Sioux Falls has created the Residential Roofing and Repair Contractor license, allowing contractors to obtain licensure for more focused home repair work, like re-shingling, re-siding, and door or window replacements, that does not require structural changes on residential single and two-family dwellings and townhomes within Sioux Falls. 

The new license complements the City’s existing Residential Contractors’ license, which covers all residential work, from building a deck to a new house. Previously, the Residential Contractors’ license was the only one available to complete any residential work. Now, the  
Residential Roofing and Repair license carves out smaller, focused work that does not require the full residential license. 

“The Planning and Development team created this license because we saw a need for it in the community,” said Butch Warrington, Chief Building Official for the City of Sioux Falls. “The hope is that this option provides more opportunity for small businesses that want to do more focused home repair jobs and supports homeowners with faster service.” 

City teams found homeowners had difficulty finding contractors under the broader residential license to do smaller home repair work. On the contractor side, those who preferred doing smaller repair jobs like re-shingling, re-siding, or window and door replacements had difficulty passing the exam or lacked interest in the full residential contractor license. 

For the new contractor license, applicants must take and pass the Residential Roofing and Repair Contractor exam, which the City offers monthly and costs $75. If the applicant passes, they must apply for the Residential Roofing and Repair license within 90 days of the exam, plus provide bond and insurance information. Like other licenses, continuing education is required to remain qualified to hold the license. 

As homeowners plan home repair projects this year, they should remember: Get a permit and consider hiring a licensed contractor. 

“The City requires permits to uphold the life and building safety of our community,” Warrington said. “Before you start any project, check to see if the work requires a permit. We highly encourage homeowners to hire a licensed contractor. Doing so protects you and your family should there be any issues with the project, especially if a permit is required.” 

Most home-building projects require a permit from the City. Common permits include:  

  • Building permits—required for ensuring structural integrity and minimum life safety for building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems—encompass tasks such as shingle and roof repairs, plumbing repairs, electrical rewiring. 
  • Sidewalk replacements 
  • Fences  
  • Detached garages and sheds 
  • Street tree planting 

To search or apply for permits, find a list of licensed contractors, or other information, visit  www.siouxfalls.gov.

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